EPS-TOPIK/KLT

The first Korean Language Test or KLT was included in the Memorandum of Understanding signed by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and Ministry of Labor of Korea on April 23, 2004. Under the MOU, the KLT shall be implemented starting August 17, 2005 for those who want to work in Korea under the Employment Permit System (EPS). The sectors that are open for Filipino workers under the Korea EPS are Manufacturing, Construction and Agricultural sectors. These days, the KLT is now called the EPS – Test of Proficiency in Korean or EPS-TOPIK.

The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) is the authorized agency of DOLE to implement the EPS-TOPIK in the Philippines in cooperation with the Human Resources Development Service of Korea or HRD Korea.

Minimum Requirements in Applying for EPS-TOPIK

Male or Female

18 to 38 years old

No criminal record in the Philippines and not restricted to leave the Philippines

No record of illegal stay in Korea

Not restricted from re-entering Korea or have completed the required period before going back to Korea

Able-bodied workers or physically and mentally fit to work

Registered with active status in the POEA Manpower Registry

Persons Who Cannot Take the EPS-TOPIK

Ex-Korea workers who have record of illegal entry, illegal stay, overstay or run-away

Those with physical defects like amputated fingers

Those who have previous cases of hepatitis B, tuberculosis, color-blindness, hearing impairment

Applicants who have difficulty learning the Korean language

Components of EPS-TOPIK and Corresponding Points to Pass

Listening: 25 questions – 100 points

Reading: 25 questions – 100 points

Total: 50 questions – 200 points, 70 minutes

Passing Grade: 20 items or 80 points

Type of Test: Paper-Based Test in Multiple Choice

Registration for the EPS-TOPIK

Applicants must register first with the POEA E-Registration System in their website

During actual registration that requires personal appearance to the designated venue, submit the following requirements:

EPS-TOPIK Application Form

Valid passport or valid government-issued ID

Two (2) pieces passport size pictures taken within 6 months

KLT fee and manner of payment

US$24 in peso paid to Landbank

Reminders to those who will take the EPS-TOPIK

Be at the examination site one hour before the test.

Submit your certificate of registration, proof of payment and passport.